The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid ranked #4 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Toyota Highlander Hybrid has a score of 8.5 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 35 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good fuel economy Strong acceleration Many standard driver assistance features
Cons Lackluster handling
Pros Handling V-6 gas mileage Consistent cabin quality in first and second rows Handy dashboard device tray Huge storage bin between front seats Power-adjustable cushion length available (driver's seat)
Cons Sluggish acceleration from a stop (V-6) Firm, busy ride Vague steering feel Whistling sound at highway speeds Small third row Apple CarPlay, Android Auto not offered
The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid receives no significant changes.The 2018 Toyota Highlander Hybrid comes with a good amount of standard equipment in the base LE trim. But we recommend upgrading to the midlevel XLE. On top of the standard systems such as forward collision mitigation and lane departure intervention, the XLE gets blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as well as the upgraded 8.1-inch touchscreen.
PROS Impressive fuel economy for a three-row crossover Just-right size for many families Added peace of mind from standard accident-avoidance tech Quiet and compliant ride
CONS Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those of many competitors
There's only one version of the 2018 Lexus ES 300h, but a couple of option packages are worth considering. The Premium package is inexpensive yet adds appealing luxury touches such as a power-adjustable steering wheel, driver-seat memory settings and wood trim (a definite upgrade over the standard piano black pieces).
PROS Efficient hybrid powertrain returns high fuel economy Luxurious interior with impressive fit and finish Plenty of rear legroom, even for tall passengers Lots of standard driver aids, and plenty of optional ones
CONS Lots of noise while the electric motor recharges the battery Enform app suite is a poor substitute for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Grabby brakes make it difficult to slow down smoothly Infotainment system's controller is frustrating to use
If you’re after a smooth, quiet, roomy, comforting luxury sedan that’s still good value, the 2018 Lexus ES may be one of the better choices.
Pros Silent interior 40-mpg hybrid model Larger inside than you’d think Smooth ride Engine pep
Cons Brake feel could be better Remote Touch interface clumsy, distracting Grille doesn’t gel with rest of car No Android Auto, Apple CarPlay
Pros Interior design Bright instruments No touch-sensitive panels App-compatible multimedia system
Cons Overpowering spindle grille Remote Touch interface Leather upholstery not standard Unremarkable hybrid gas mileage estimates
